Is My Tooth Pain the Result of Sinus Pressure?

When most people experience tooth pain, contacting their dentist is typically their first move. After all, they’re the most qualified person for identifying the cause and administering effective treatment. In some cases, however, the cause of pain in your teeth can have nothing to do with them at all. Read on to learn about how sinus pressure can cause dental pain and how to tell if your dentist is the best medical professional to give you relief.

The Relationship Between the Sinuses and the Teeth

Underneath your face are air-filled passages that filter, moisten, and warm incoming air and produce mucus to clean the nose. These are called sinuses, and like the rest of the body’s tissues, they are susceptible to infection and inflammation which can cause pain, pressure, and congestion. Symptoms of sinusitis are similar to those of allergies, including:

• Fatigue
• Fever
• Bad breath
• Sore Throat
• Ear pain or fullness
• Facial tenderness
• Thick, discolored mucus

A pair of sinuses sit directly above the upper rear teeth. When infected sinuses swell, the resulting pressure can stress the upper molars, resulting in a dull or unbearable constant ache across multiple teeth. The lower molars can also feel pain in some cases. Because sinus pressure shifts as you move, jumping or bending over can intensify the pain in the teeth while sitting or lying down can cause it to decrease.

In cases of sinus infection or inflammation, see your primary care doctor. If the problem persists after that, you will likely receive a referral to an ear nose and throat specialist (ENT).

When Is It Just a Toothache?

If pain is caused by sinus pressure, the teeth likely have nothing to do with the problem, but in cases of actual toothache, the source of the pain is inside the tooth. Toothaches can be caused by decay, grinding, trauma, and infection. If the pain in a particular tooth is sharp, throbbing, and does not cease after one day, it is a good idea to call a dentist, especially if you can see signs of decay or trauma.

Cases of unbearable toothache accompanied by fever or chills are considered dental emergencies. These can be caused by advanced infections that can spread to other teeth or parts of the body. The situation requires immediate attention from a dentist because, if allowed to progress, the results can be fatal.

Persistent facial pain shouldn’t be ignored or needlessly endured. Knowing how to tell the difference between a toothache and pain caused by sinus pressure can help you to get the care you need more quickly.

About the Practice

The team at Wethersfield Dental Group provides dental care and education to Wethersfield, CT. Led by Drs. Phadnis and Javed, the staff builds lasting relationships by serving families and patients of all ages with compassion and dedication. Services include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If you are concerned about a toothache, contact the office online or dial (860) 400-3007.